Oilcan Harry’s image

Oilcan Harry’s

Bar Gay night club

Boisterous, spacious gay dance club with a patio, theme nights & a weekly late-night drag show. People often mention drag, cousin, staff, time, show, night, great, drinks, queen, Oilcan,


Address

211 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701

Website

www.oilcanharrys.com

Contact

(512) 351-8423

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (223 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 2 PM to 2 AM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 2 PM to 2 AM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 2 PM to 2 AM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 2 PM to 2 AM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 2 PM to 2 AM
  • Tuesday: 2 PM to 2 AM
  • Wednesday: 2 PM to 2 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: drag (22) cousin (20) staff (20) time (19) show (18) night (13) great (13) drinks (10) queen (9) Oilcan (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Stephanie S. 1 year ago on Google
    I am writing this review on behalf of my cousin who wants to remain anonymous. Do Not Come To This Establishment If You Are Brown or Black! You Will Not Feel Welcomed. You Will Be Disrespected And Mistreated. Saturday night 12/17/2022 my cousin, a masculine presenting brown/Afro-Latina, was discriminated against by front door staff (described as a white drag queen) and 2 other staff members (also white). My cousin was on the way to the front door of Oilcan Harry's (about 10 feet away) and near her was the drag queen (assuming they were going back to their work station/returning to the club). The drag queen turned to her and said "oh no you're being too aggressive" and proceeded to go to the door to ensure she does not gain entry. My cousin was really confused. She was wondering if she was talking too loudly? Did she bump them on accident? She was mindful that she was feeling drunk (not uncommon for folks in this area going to bars) but was very aware of her actions. She proceeds to the door and the drag queen went behind the two staff members and proceeded to say "don't let her in she's too aggressive". My cousin wanted to speak to the drag queen and ask what did she do that was perceived as aggressive. The drag queen continued to stay behind the two other staff members and those two staff members began to perceive my cousin as a threat and physically pushed her away and told her to leave. My cousin began to get upset because they pushed her. My cousin wanted to speak to the drag queen and ask what did she do if further clarification can be provided because she did not do anything threating. She was simply walking to the queer club, Oilcan Harry's. My cousin was then physically pushed back by a non staff member. This non staff member pulled my cousin to the ground and put her in a headlock. My cousin cried out and yelled for help as she was on the floor. The drag queen and two staff members watched and did nothing. They stood there and watched as my cousin cried out for help. My cousin did not fight back because the non staff member who was assaulting her was white and she knew that if police came she would be seen as the criminal and the staff will tell police she was being aggressive. It wasnt until a random person told the non staff member to let my cousin go. That random person saved my cousins life because no one did anything. My cousin stood up and cried, yelling at the staff for not helping her. Again, they stood there and did nothing. They did not apologize. Hearing this wasn't shocking but it broke my heart. Being a black / Brown queer person in Austin is a truly horrific experience. You are constantly discriminated and mistreated by non queer and queer white people. I wish I had warned her. She is new to Austin and never experienced something like this in her life in a queer space. Oilcan Harry will reply to this review with a generic statement. They may even claim my cousin was super drunk and was being aggressive. They will try to discredit my cousin experience. To hear my cousin is scared to be herself in Austin (wants to be appear less like a threat) because of this experience is truth enough to believe in her experience. Do not come here. Replying to Oilcan Harry's follow up response: Thank you for your response. Again, the information I provided in this review was passed down to me from my cousin. I will not take down this review because I believe people who say they have been harmed by someone and/or multiple people. I believe my cousin. Just like in most cases, there are two sides to each story. Your business will do what it needs to do to protect your image. I will do what I need to do to protect my family. An advocate/representative will be in contact with Oilcan Harry's management team regarding this matter.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Phil K. 2 years ago on Google
    Went on a Monday night and had an amazing time with the hostess with the mostess lady grackle. Also, their karaoke of you choose the genre and they choose the song was the perfect mix of a nightmare and a great time!!! I normally hate karaoke but because of the style I didn’t feel judged or anything and had a great time 😌
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A. J. V. 1 year ago on Google
    Came in on a Monday while on vacation looking for one last thing to do. It was me and my partner’s first time at an in person drag show, and it was great! We unfortunately had to leave early so we’d be able to get up in time for our flight Tuesday, but we will definitely be back if we’re out this way again. Very fun crowd, friendly bartenders, and what an amazing performance 😄
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nan A. 1 year ago on Google
    Friendly and inviting atmosphere. Staff were super nice and helpful. Bar has great selection of spirits and beers. Bathrooms are unisex and super clean. Great patio where grill was going with burgers. Wonderful show on a Sunday, entertaining and fun. Felt very safe and at ease, patrons were also very friendly and polite. Inside bar and outdoor patio were very clean and well decorated. Love the music and lighting. Walked from a few blocks over, area and storefront felt safe, can't wait to go back!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Alex K. 11 months ago on Google
    Edition to my previous review “” I received a rude and hateful reply from the owner, It appears that the individual who provided the reply might not have a clear understanding of hate speech( check the picture for more information). For the record, I only posted two reviews on that particular night, which doesn't encompass all the gay clubs in Austin. Additionally, I am of Ukrainian origin. I would love to change my rating from one star to zero if I could “” I recently visited Oilcan Harry's and unfortunately, I had a very bad experience. The first thing that struck me was the unprofessionalism of the staff. They seemed uninterested in helping or serving customers, and their overall demeanor was unwelcoming. This made for an uncomfortable atmosphere and it felt like the staff did not value or appreciate their guests. On top of this, the place was dirty and nasty. It was clear that the venue had not been properly cleaned or maintained, which made me feel uneasy and uncomfortable throughout my visit. To make matters worse, the drinks were expensive and of poor quality. I was very disappointed with the taste and presentation of the cocktails, and it felt like I was wasting my money on subpar drinks. Overall, I would not recommend Oilcan Harry's to anyone. The unprofessional staff, dirty environment, and expensive, bad-tasting drinks made for an unpleasant experience. If you are looking for a good night out, I suggest looking elsewhere for a more enjoyable and welcoming venue.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Enrique V. 1 year ago on Google
    Yesterday I went with my husband to see two RPDR girls coming for a show, the resident Drag Queens saved the night , they were funny and all did a great job. In Europe ye other hand, the ones we came to see after paying did a terrible job, 3 min each one, so I'll recommend not to waste your money paying 40+$ for this, better come on normal days and tip the local entertainers
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 m a. 2 years ago on Google
    Wish I could give more stars but my few encounters were due in part of some of their staff from door person to drag show hostess Kelly Kline who always made me feel unwelcomed each time I visited. It’s been years and I haven’t returned and won’t if they’re still employed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rosalinda R. 7 months ago on Google
    Obsessed!!!! with this place!!!! The music and lights are the vibe. I definitely plan on coming back often. We were there during the drag show and they did a Barbie number that was amazing. It's surrounded by other bars as well which make it perfect for bar hopping.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Glen M. 1 year ago on Google
    Friendly space to go and hangout or see a show. Great atmosphere, performers, and drinks! Staff was very friendly and helpful as well!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lindsay T. 1 year ago on Google
    I originally arrived on Friday for the stoplight meetup and drag show, of course a little nervous this being my first gay bar visit - I’m happy to say I had a blast! While it was small, the diversity was THERE and a testament to how much Austin loves OCH’s. While it was small, there are several rooms including an outdoor patio with heaters. You can really tell the staff cares about everyone’s safety, while being very courteous and inclusive.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 jack l. 1 year ago on Google
    I had a good time here and got to catch a drag show going on. I felt safe and comfortable here. The drinks are pretty expensive, so be prepared for that, but they were also strong and tasty. Overall a great time. Gets busy, but there's plenty of room to host everyone.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael B. 1 year ago on Google
    So much fun tonight. Raymond, our bartender, was amazing. I highly recommend this place. A wonderful evening.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Courtney J. 1 year ago on Google
    Came on a Saturday night with a Bachelorette party for the Best Drag Show Ever! Super fun show. Queens were engaging, fun, and very talented. Would recommend the drag show for sure! Had a blast!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 L S. 1 year ago on Google
    Went on Monday to the Grackle Games. It was a great show with awesome performances and some funny roasts. The staff is very friendly and helpful. A friendly Environment with clean unisex bathrooms.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Belinda E. 5 months ago on Google
    We came in from Houston to celebrate my daughters bachelorette party. Reserved a table for 7 and we had THE BEST time. We danced and saw an awesome drag show. Everyone was sooóooo cool. I highly recommend if you want a great time for sure!! Love you peeps at Oilcan Harry's. Thanks for assisting with making my daughters night more special.I LOVE Y'ALL!!

  • 1/5 Shiba I. 11 months ago on Google
    I went to this bar and it wasn't a great time. The people working there and the managers were pretty rude, which made the place feel unfriendly. The drinks were pricey and not that good, and the bar was dirty and not very nice-looking. Overall, not the best experience.

  • 5/5 Silver S. 8 months ago on Google
    OCH has long been a staple of gay Austin nightlife and every time I visit I understand why. I’m greeted at the door politely, wanded for security but never patted down invasively, and once inside the bartenders are friendly, prompt (not to mention sexy), and the shows are always entertaining. Additionally, Harry’s Dark Bar is host to a variety of fun events for all types of people, in fact, on my last visit it was “Furry” night and there were lots of people dancing dressed up in their fursuits! I’ve actually been a guest gogo dancer there in the past myself and have thoroughly enjoyed myself. Looking forward to visiting again!

  • 5/5 Elisa V. 8 months ago on Google
    Went to a Sunday Drag show 7-9 pm! So much fun! It was happy hour, bartenders were very welcoming!

  • 5/5 Dan 6 months ago on Google
    Had a great time here tonight with my family at a drag show!! Jonathan the manger is amazing and does a great job! The club provides a safe fun place for everyone!! Thanks OCH 🤗❤️

  • 1/5 Fritz W. 5 months ago on Google
    Wish I could give more stars but my few encounters were due in part of some of their staff from door person to drag show hostess Kelly Kline who always made me feel unwelcomed each time I visited. It’s been years and I haven’t returned and won’t if they’re still employed.really rude staff

  • 5/5 Kristopher D. 8 months ago on Google
    A great time! Wonderful local Drag entertainers hosted a trivia & watch party, shots were awarded to the correct answers. A wonderful vibe and even better service. The watch party was really nice! Great DJ!

  • 5/5 Nic W. 1 year ago on Google
    This was my first time visiting Austin's LGBTQIA area and I loved it! The vibe of this place was amazing and the Drag Queens were so good! Drinks were on point! I'll be visiting again and again.

  • 5/5 Yacov S. 1 year ago on Google
    Went with the boif on a Tue night, so wasn't expecting much, but drag karaoke with Cheeki Khant was a blast. Crowd was made up of theater kids, couples, singles, and a whole variety of queers, not just white cis gays. No cover, vodka cranberry was 8.25. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Nathan G. 1 year ago on Google
    I don’t swing this way but my female friends wanted a show. We all came here for Halloween and it was great. It’s kinda nice being handed free drinks and hit on. Not gonna lie.

  • 5/5 Ollie T. 1 year ago on Google
    This was the first place I went to when I moved to Austin. I was actually visiting to scope the city out. And it didn't disappoint! The bartender sat with me and chatted cause it was a slow Tuesday. Fast forward a year- it's my go to place when I need a night out! Always fun, lively and welcoming. Between the music, the shows, and the people, I've never had a bad experience!

  • 5/5 J L. 2 years ago on Google
    When it’s time for a service, Oilcan Harry’s gets the job done every time. You go girl.

  • 5/5 JCW J. 2 years ago on Google
    Fun place. Pretty boys. Great crowd

  • 4/5 Seth W. 2 years ago on Google
    Fun vibe, cool atmosphere. Drinks were reasonably priced. Kind of an average venue. I went early too, so not sure what a later crowd might look like. It was thin , but again it was early on a weeknight. Worth checking out if you’re passing through.

  • 5/5 We Are p. 2 years ago on Google
    Last night was the first night I’ve ever gotten out partying and I’m so glad I came to this place. I was walking around and saw this beautiful drag queen and thought to myself that I’ve never met one before so I decided to go ask her questions about getting in since I had no idea. This lady was so nice and sweet and explained everything to me and made me feel welcomed. I think her name was lady crackle or something ( sorry if I got it wrong, it was loud ) Once I got in I was greeted with other drag queens that were incredibly sweet and talented. I had an absolute blast. And it was extra special because my first drag show was also dedicated to Britney being free and In someways, it set me free too. I didn’t know anything about drag show culture and I wasn’t laughed at, everyone guided me and was so loving. I felt really comfortable. So thank you to all of the staffs and the performers for making my first night something I’ll never forget <3

  • 4/5 Ash 2 years ago on Google
    I had a fantastic time here. The bartenders were so sweet and my drinks were strong! (Maybe a little too strong lol) love the vibes here. I did however get charged about 6 times for 25$…. Not sure what’s that’s about, hoping I can call them when they open and have it sorted. I had about 5 drinks and $125 for 5 drinks just doesn’t seem right… I’ll have to call my bank if I can’t sort it out with them and I probably won’t come back if they won’t fix it for me. Fingers crossed 🤞🏽


Call (512) 351-8423 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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